Understanding how specific modifications in tRNA affect protein production
Official title: Determining how 2'-O-methylations in the eukaryotic anticodon loop region of tRNA are formed and how they affect translation
Funded at Northern Kentucky University · NIH-10438971 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain changes in a type of molecule called transfer RNA (tRNA) help our cells make proteins, using yeast to learn more about these changes and how they might be connected to health issues like intellectual disabilities and metabolic disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northern Kentucky University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Highland Heights, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2018 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $416,498 |
| NIH project number | 2R15GM128050-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10438971 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological disorders or metabolic conditions associated with tRNA modification defects.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without any known genetic or metabolic disorders related to tRNA modifications may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of specific chemical modifications in transfer RNA (tRNA) that are crucial for the translation process, which converts genetic information into proteins. By using yeast as a model organism, the study aims to uncover how these modifications are formed and their impact on cellular function. The research will focus on two proteins, Trm732 and Trm734, which are involved in creating these modifications and are linked to various human diseases, including intellectual disabilities and metabolic disorders. The findings could enhance our understanding of how defects in tRNA modifications contribute to disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the treatment of diseases linked to tRNA modification defects, potentially improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding tRNA modifications and their implications in various diseases, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Northern Kentucky University
Highland Heights, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Guy, Michael P. — Northern Kentucky University
- Study coordinator: Guy, Michael P.
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
How tiny chemical tags on tRNA change how cells make proteins
This work looks at how chemical changes to tRNA affect protein production and how those changes relate to intellectual disability and type 2 diabetes.
-
How early antipsychotic use affects brain development
This research looks at whether giving antipsychotic medicines when kids are very young changes brain development and later responses to stimulant drugs.
-
Effects of early-life antipsychotic treatment on brain development
This study looks at how taking antipsychotic medications early in life might impact brain development and behavior as kids grow up, especially for those treated for mental health issues, and it also gives college students a chance to learn through hands-on research.
-
Understanding how opioid exposure affects children's brain function
This study is looking at how using opioids during pregnancy might affect kids' thinking skills, like paying attention and controlling impulses, and it’s for parents who want to understand the potential impacts on their children.
-
Understanding how SAM gene mutations affect cell processes and genome stability
This study is looking at how changes in certain genes can affect cell health and stability, which might help us understand cancer better and improve treatment options for patients.
-
Investigating how genetics influence brain development affected by environmental toxins.
This study is looking at how our genes might make some people more sensitive to a harmful chemical called benzo[a]pyrene, which can come from pollution and certain foods, and how this exposure during important growth stages could lead to lasting brain and behavior problems, with the hope of finding ways to protect agai
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.